Social reformer Ashok Deshmane redefines compassion and social service with his selfless dedication to the children of farmers, providing free shelter and education, reports Mrunal Jadhav
Pune-based social worker Ashok Deshmane, is known for his exemplary work in the field of child education and being the voice of the voiceless. Deshmane left his high-paying lucrative job to pursue his passion for children of farmers’ education. While a typical day of a farmer is spent in the hot fields, Deshmane’s work is a beacon of hope for the children of the providers. Despite being an agrarian nation, many farming families struggle to provide their children with a good education and opportunities. Some of the children even find themselves orphaned or raised by a single parent. In these challenging situations, Deshmane offers his help through his NGO Snehwan. His NGO provides not just education but also a lifeline for individuals whose lives are impacted by agricultural labour.
A ray of hope
At the age of 26, Deshmane, a young IT engineer from the Parbhani district, began his life-affirming mission. Deshmane was deeply affected by the news of farmers committing suicide due to debts in Marathwada and other regions of Maharashtra. Recognizing the dire consequences of such incidents, particularly for the families left in their wake, Ashok felt compelled to act. In 2015, Ashok took the bold decision to leave his high-paying job as an engineer to address the issue head-on. He founded Snehwan―A Ray of Hope, a social project aimed at providing quality education and support to the children of suicide farmers and fatherless children. “Witnessing the harsh realities of rural life hitting so close to home, I knew I had to act,” shares Deshmane.
Education for all
Growing up in a farmer’s family, Deshmane claims himself fortunate to receive a quality education despite the challenging circumstances. “This upbringing instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to support children facing similar hardships,” shares the social worker.
After moving to Pune in 2012, Deshmane started allocating a portion of his salary to aid underprivileged kids. The first two children he took under his wing, Ram and Lakhan, who are now in eleventh and 10th grade respectively, have been with Snehwan for the past eight years. During the drought conditions from 2013-15, both the children’s families faced immense difficulties as they heavily relied on their father’s income. “Meeting their daily needs became a daunting task, and the prospect of the children receiving an education seemed a distant dream,” he confesses. It was during this challenging time that Deshmane decided to take on the responsibility of their education. “We explained to their parents the importance of education and committed to supporting the boys’ schooling in 2016.”
Despite being an agrarian nation, many farming families struggle to provide their children with a good education and opportunities
Not without my family
Starting with just 18 children in two rooms, Snehwan has blossomed into a sanctuary of hope. It is now a home to 180 children. Snehwan has continued to expand its reach and impact to several cities in Maharashtra. From humble beginnings in two rooms, it now occupies two acres of land, with plans for further development, including additional facilities and educational opportunities for underprivileged girls.
I was able to assist these kids, but soon realised that education alone wasn’t sufficient. I wanted to offer them more than just schooling. I had to ensure they had a safe place to stay and access to nutritious meals, reflects Deshmane and agrees that his wife, Archana has helped make Snehwan a compassionate place for children.
Deshmane was deeply affected by the news of farmers committing suicide due to debts in Marathwada and other regions of Maharashtra
“My wife wholeheartedly supports my initiative. Even before we got married, I was forthright in sharing with her that this is a social mission I’m deeply committed to, and I needed her complete support,” shares the social activist. Apart from his wife, Deshmane’s parents share their knowledge and kindness from time to time to create a space that crosses bloodlines between children and the founders.
Starting with just 18 children in two rooms, Snehwan has blossomed into a sanctuary of hope. It is now a home to 180 children
